The IPL team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has ushered in a new chapter by naming rising star Rajat Patidar as their captain for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. The announcement came on February 13, marking a significant shift in leadership after much speculation. The move follows Virat Kohli’s decision not to reclaim the role, despite initial reports hinting at his return. With former skipper Faf du Plessis not retained in the mega auctions, RCB turned to Rajat Patidar to lead the franchise into the new season.
Virat Kohli, who had previously led RCB from 2011 to 2023, remains an integral part of the team. His leadership saw RCB come close to IPL glory, particularly in 2016 when they reached the final, only to be denied the trophy by Sunrisers Hyderabad. While the coveted title eluded him, his impact on the team remains undeniable. However, with Virat Kohli opting not to take on the captaincy again, the franchise sought a fresh face to step up.
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Rajat Patidar brings with him a wealth of experience from domestic cricket, having led Madhya Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. His leadership credentials and consistent performances made him the ideal candidate to take over the reins. With RCB not acquiring a player with established leadership experience in the auctions, the team management saw him as the right choice to guide the squad forward.
RCB’s team director, Mo Bobat, shed light on the decision, addressing why Virat Kohli was not reinstated as captain. He acknowledged Virat Kohli’s natural leadership qualities and emphasised that the star batter’s influence on the team extends beyond an official title. He also revealed that Virat Kohli was fully supportive of the decision and was instrumental in backing Rajat Patidar’s appointment.
Shortly after the announcement, Virat Kohli himself extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rajat Patidar, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the team. He praised the young batter’s dedication and assured him of his full support. Virat Kohli also called upon his teammates to rally behind Rajat Patidar as he embarks on this new challenge, ensuring that RCB competes with strategic intent and determination in the IPL 2025.
Here’s what Virat Kohli said in the video message, “Rajat, I want to congratulate you, on the way you have grown in this franchise, you have made a place in the hearts of fans of RCB all over India. This is very well deserved, I tell you that myself and the other team members will be right behind you. Show him absolute support, get right behind him, he will always do what’s best for the team, best for the franchise.”
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With a new leader in place and the ever-passionate RCB fanbase behind them, the franchise now looks ahead to the upcoming season, eager to finally turn their long-standing dream of an IPL trophy into reality.
